On January 1 each year, tens of thousands gather in St. Peter's Square, filling the
streets with pageantry and music, to celebrate and receive the Pope's New Year's Day
blessing. A focal point of Rome's holiday season and the World Day of Peace, the Rome
New Year's Parade celebrates life, cultural diversity and international goodwill.

The Rome New Year's Parade proceeds along the grand Via della Conciliazione and
culminates in St. Peter's Square. In keeping with the Italian tradition, enthusiastic
spectators fall into step alongside the bands, showing their appreciation with
whistles and waves.

Each year, over 100,000 people process to St. Peter's Square before the Pope's annual
New Year's address and blessing. Participants include military, civic and school
marching bands and auxiliary units. After the blessing, bands have a stationary
performance in the square before marching back to Castel Sant'Angelo.

The parade organizers include Gateway Music Festivals & Tours, who extend invitations
to select American and Canadian bands. With nearly thirty years of experience
organizing parades and music tours around the world, Gateway is honored to represent
this remarkable event.

Comments From Past Participants

"I had never done anything with the band that was more exciting than the
Rome New Year's Parade. We were literally under the apartment window of
the Pope. Even after numerous appearances in the Tournament of Roses
Parade, London New Year's Parade, Macy's Parade, Dublin St. Patrick's
Parade, Fiesta Bowl Parade, the Rome New Year's Parade ranks as one of
the greatest trips we have ever taken. It was just an emotional roller
coaster all the way."Paul Parets, Director of Bands
Alexis I. duPont Tiger Marching Band, Wilmington, DE
Rome New Year's Parade, 2007 and 2011

"Thank you for an awesome trip  very well-organized trip all the way
around."Steve Nedzel, Assoc. Director of Bands
Lincoln-Way Central Marching Knights, New Lenox, IL
Rome New Year's Parade, 2009

"I have been traveling with bands for 20+ years. The Rome New Year's
Parade was one of the highlights of my career. My students are in awe of
the experience. I can't say enough good things. Thank you!"Michael Aycock, Director of Bands
Spain Park High School, Hoover, AL
Rome New Year's Parade, 2008

"This trip to Italy was a huge success and was more than I expected.
Every aspect was spectacular, I rate this tour a perfect 10 out of 10!"Robert Owens, Director of Bands
East Coweta High School, Sharpsburg, GA
Rome New Year's Parade, 2008

"We have participated twice now, this is indeed 'experiences of a
lifetime' for our students and directors. Performing for thousands in
St. Peter's square was a thrill for us all. I highly encourage bands to
travel to Italy to experience the warmth of the Italian people. Every
aspect of this trip was remarkable  we are returning in December 2011!Dr. Neal Schnoor, Director
University of Nebraska Kearney Pride of the Plains Marching Band
Rome New Year's Parade, 2006 and 2009